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19.2.12

It was such a great opportunity to see Bernard Chandran AW 12/13 collection thanks to FiveFiveFabulous.com, Slam PR and Propercorn and this time as a spectator and not as an intern at the shows. There was a huge amount of anticipation and buzz in the air as the show hall at Vauxhall Fashion Scout was brimful, all with cameras, iphones and even ipads to hand ready to snap away.

The show kicked off with two models walking the runway in tandem both with oversized collars and contrasting shade of light and dark which set the tone for the show; structured and sophisticated. The collection had a sharper edge to his previous offerings and had a utility 1940's underpinning construction to the pieces which I really liked. Beautiful fabrics and contrasting textures were cleverly mixed to add interest to the feminine silhouettes. Sparkling custom-made embellishments could be found subtly on each garment from shoes, belts, collars and even the models lips (Perhaps the invite gave a tiny hint to that).

It was interesting that although Chandran seamlessly infuses cultural references into his work with rich hues, exquisite use of fabrics and embellishment the collection somehow had an almost british war-time feel, with models sporting a series of forward and backwards vintage fringe roll hairstyles, flowing into a chignon tightly pinned at the back teamed with iconic red lips.

One inflatable character who a) could not be missed by the PR ushering her through the crowds but b) added some interest to the front row, with everyones eyes transfixed and 'papping' flash bulbs on Pandemonia.

Unfortunately not positioned in the best place to photograph the show entirely successfully, these were my candid attempts...

However I loved not viewing the show through a lens and really enjoyed taking in the clothing for all it's glory. Beautiful elegant collection see the video by Brighton Art below: